Fonterra Cobden Celebrates 30 Years of Iconic Milk Dryer
This week marks 30 years since Fonterra’s Cobden site first fired up its state-of-the-art milk dryer for production. To celebrate, Fonterra’s Cobden team recognised the milestone, with stories from its first three decades of operation, as well as a birthday cake.
The dryer stands an impressive seven storeys tall and can process 1.5 million litres of milk each day – the equivalent of around 2.5 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
As one of the largest milk dryers in Australia, with the ability to process 12 tonnes of milk powder per hour, it is the cornerstone of Fonterra's operations in southwest Victoria.
Andrew Westlake served as Fonterra Cobden’s Powder Production Manager for five years before transitioning to the role of Continuous Improvement Manager. Mr Westlake said over 500 tonnes of stainless steel was required to construct the dryer and the building stands over 40 metres tall.
“The dryer was officially opened on 1 July 1994 by Senator the Hon. Robert (Bob) Collins, the then Minister for Primary Industries and Energy.
“Since the dryer’s opening in 1994, it has operated at peak efficiency. We have a dedicated and experienced team of 12 people who ensure the dryer is maintained in tip top condition.
“More than 40% of the product we produce at our main site here in Cobden, is derived from the dryer, including full, skim and buttermilk powders.
“These powders are exported to markets worldwide, including South East Asia and China, and are also sold as ingredients to businesses across Australia,” he said.
Mr Westlake emphasised the strategic importance of the dryer, which allows milk to be transformed into powder and provides Fonterra optionality.
"Over 500 tonnes of stainless steel was required to construct the dryer and the building stands over 40 metres tall."
“The assets we have at Cobden, including the dryer, allow us to switch between products quickly to meet changing global market demands, ramp up production when milk volumes increase, and deliver the best product mix to maximise returns,” he said.
“Regular maintenance, combined with our systems, processes, and skilled personnel, ensures the dryer operates efficiently and has been key to its longevity and performance,” Mr Westlake said.
This 30-year celebration marks a historic milestone for Fonterra’s Cobden site and highlights the dedication and commitment to excellence and high-quality work from employees, past and present.